The recent addition of Santander bikes around Leicester has been great for everyone - whether you're an avid cyclist or just fancy a change to your daily commute! Docking stations have popped up all over the city, with one conveniently located right by The Gresham.
With Bike Week taking place 30th May - 12th June, we’ve put together a short list of great cycle spots to try out, from easy explorations to something for the more experienced.
Watermead Park
Perfect for the family and cyclists of all ages and experience-levels, Watermead Park is fun for everyone. Located just past the National Space Centre, the park is home to The Reedbed Nature Reserve and lots of cafes and food and drink options, so you can spend the day by the waterfront taking in the beautiful views.
Everards Meadows
Less than a 30 min cycle from The Gresham, Everards Meadows is a 70 acre park with great cycling and walking trails to try out. This route is great for a family trip, alongside the River Soar and Grand Union Canal Walk, watch out for wildlife and do some bird watching.
Bradgate Park
A bit further out at a 40 min ride, take a trip to the stunning Bradgate Park just outside the city of Leicester. With a deer park, waterside path, and woodland walking trails there’s so much to see. Want a challenge? Check out the climb up to Old John Tower, the 696 ft hill is the highest in the park and a Leicestershire landmark. The park is also filled with heritage and history, with the ruins of the 1520 Bradgate House still standing. With so much to do, we highly recommend making a day of your trip.
Ivanhoe Trail
With this trail, the countryside is your oyster! This cycle trail avoids all the busy roads and takes you on the scenic route from Glenfield right down to Ratby in the west Leicestershire countryside. Choose to tackle some mighty hills once you get there, or have a pint and a bite to eat, as conveniently the trail starts and ends at two pubs both named The Railway Inn!
Route 63 - Melton Mowbray, Oakham, Rutland
For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, take the National Cycle route 63 from the city centre through to sites such as Melton Mowbray and Rutland. The route will predominantly take you on quiet country lanes through some of Leicestershire’s prettiest little villages. Depending on your end location this route will take a few hours so we would only recommend it for someone who is an experienced cyclist and is used to longer and more challenging rides.
As we start to see a bit more sun and summer starts to show its face, try out one of these great routes as a starting point if you’re looking for something new and different to do in the local area! With all these routes conveniently starting in the city centre, stay at The Gresham for the perfect relaxing end to your long and active day!
